Last Name Goze

The surname "Goze" has origins that can be traced to various regions across Europe, including France and Germany. It is derived from the Old High German word "Gozzo," which was a personal name popular among Germanic tribes during the Middle Ages. In some cases, it may have also originated as an occupational surname for someone who made or sold goat's milk products, derived from the Old French term "goz" or the Middle High German word "gōz," both of which refer to a goat. The name can be found in France today primarily among the Huguenots (French Protestants), with several notable bearers hailing from the region of Poitou-Charentes. In Germany, it is relatively uncommon but can occasionally be found in Bavaria and other Southern regions. It is worth noting that surnames did not become widespread in Europe until after the fall of the Roman Empire, so the exact origin and migration patterns of the name "Goze" are complex and varied.

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The meaning and origin of the last name Goze

The surname Goze is of Hebrew origin, derived from the name Gad, which means "troop" or "army" in Hebrew. It was often given to babies born on Thursday as Thursday was associated with the tribe of Gad in Jewish tradition. Over time, this surname has been found in various countries, particularly among Sephardic Jews who were expelled from Spain during the Inquisition and settled in countries like Portugal, Turkey, and North Africa. The name may also be found among Ashkenazi Jews, who have ancestral roots in Eastern Europe. As with many surnames, its original spelling has evolved over centuries, and variations such as Goz, Gose, or Goss can also be encountered today.

Geographical distribution of the last name Goze

The surname Goze is predominantly found in the Turkish-speaking regions, with significant concentrations in Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. It is less common but still present in other countries such as Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, and Moldova, where it may be a variant or closely related name due to historical and cultural ties between these regions. In Western Europe, Goze can also be found among the Turkish diaspora in cities like London, Paris, and Amsterdam. The distribution of the name suggests a historical connection to the Anatolian region of Turkey and the Balkans, with migration and dispersal of the population contributing to its presence in various parts of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Goze

The surname Goze has several spelling variants across different regions and time periods. Some common variations include Gose, Goss, Gosses, Gozz, Gozzes, Gozie, and Gozze. These variations may arise due to differences in local dialects, transcription errors, or even changes in family's preference over time. The original etymology of the name is unclear; it might be of Germanic origin (from the Old High German 'gaut' meaning 'people') or a locational name from any of several places called Gose or Goze in Germany or France. In some cases, it could also be an occupational surname for a goatherd or someone who made goat products. As with many surnames, the specific spelling and history can vary greatly among different families bearing the name.

Famous people with the last name Goze

The Goze surname is historically associated with the Gypsy community in Europe and has produced several notable figures across various fields. One such individual is Jeanne Gozzi (also known as Zingara), a dancer, singer, and poet who was part of the bohemian culture in Paris during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Another significant figure is Yves Gozlan, a French mathematician and computer scientist who made contributions to the fields of numerical analysis and scientific computing. Lastly, Rachel Goode, an American actress, is well-known for her roles in television shows such as "Gilmore Girls" and "The West Wing." These individuals, each with their unique talents and achievements, demonstrate the diverse paths taken by those sharing the last name Goze.

Genealogical research on the last name Goze

The surname Goze originates from France, particularly in the region of Gascony, where it was first recorded in the 12th century as a variation of the personal name Gautier or Gausbert. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the name evolved, with variations such as Gozier, Goize, and Gauze appearing in different regions. Some members of the family migrated to England during the Middle Ages, where they established themselves as landowners and religious leaders. The Gozes are also found in significant numbers in Spain and Portugal, having been introduced by Crusaders returning from the Holy Land. In more recent times, families with the name Goze can be found throughout Europe and the Americas, particularly in France, England, and the United States. Notable individuals bearing this surname include the French composer Claude Gozio (1830-1909) and the American artist and sculptor Renee Gozlan (b. 1957).

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Goze"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 14 June 2025

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